Lionel Messi has returned to Argentina following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, as Inter Miami suffered a 2-1 defeat to Monterrey in their Leagues Cup fixture on Saturday.

Messi was absent from Inter Miami’s squad for the match after his father died at the age of 68 in Argentina.

The Inter Miami captain travelled to his homeland following the sad news, with the club and Monterrey paying tribute to Jorge Messi before kick-off.

Players and officials from both teams observed a minute’s silence in his honour ahead of the Leagues Cup encounter.

Without their captain and talisman, Inter Miami were unable to secure a positive result at home, eventually falling to a 2-1 defeat against the Mexican side.

Messi’s absence represents a major blow to Inter Miami as they continue their Leagues Cup campaign, but the immediate focus remains on supporting the Argentina international and his family following the loss.

Jorge Messi played an important role throughout his son’s remarkable football career, having been closely involved in Lionel’s development from his early days in Argentina through his rise to global stardom.

The football world has continued to send messages of support to Messi and his family as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner takes time away from football to mourn his father’s passing.

Inter Miami will now await further updates regarding Messi’s return as the club continues its Leagues Cup campaign.